Consulate General of Finland, Los Angeles

Government of Finland

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About Consulate General of Finland, Los Angeles

The Consulate General of Finland in Los Angeles represents Finland in thirteen Western US states. The geographic size of the jurisdiction is equivalent to about half of Europe. The operation of the Consulate is centered in California – world's 5th largest economy and home to almost 40 million people.

Western US is one of the leading economies in multiple industries. Creativity combined with innovations and risk-taking culture, as well as the availability and amount of capital and venture capital investments make it a unique market. Technology and its development play a central role in the Western US - many of the world's largest ICT companies have headquarters in the area. Within the Consulate's jurisdiction, the most significant "economic hubs" are Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area/Silicon Valley and San Diego. Additionally, Seattle in Washington State; Phoenix in Arizona; Denver in Colorado and Portland in Oregon are among important growing economic centers.

We at the Consulate General of Finland focus on two main areas: Trade promotion and consular services. The objective of trade promotion is to connect business communities and promote partnerships and alliances between Finnish and US companies, organizations, universities and research institutions. The industries of main focus are the major industries in California - namely, cleantech, healthcare, ICTs, gaming and creative industries. The Consulate organizes events, seminars and trade missions, conducts research and builds networks within its area of operation.

The objective is to maintain Finland's positive reputation and promote Finland's strengths and the Nordic culture. The Consulate General collaborates closely with the Embassy of Finland in Washington D.C., the Consulate General of Finland in New York and other members of the Team Finland USA network, as well as with other local organizations and honorary consuls.

The second main function of the Consulate is to offer consular services to Finnish citizens as well as immigration and visa services to foreign nationals. There are about 10,000 Finns within the Consulate's jurisdiction. In addition to consular services, the Consulate provides assistance in cases of emergency.